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What are some ways to create an inclusive library space for children?

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Creating an inclusive library space for children is not only a matter of providing diverse books and materials, but also of designing a welcoming and supportive environment that reflects and respects the needs, interests, and identities of all young patrons. In this article, we will explore some ways to create an inclusive library space for children, based on the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), cultural competence, and community engagement.

本文章的要点总结

Embrace UDL principles:

Introduce various formats like audio and digital books, and design spaces with adaptable furniture to cater to different needs, promoting an engaging environment for every child.
Foster community engagement:

Build strong relationships with local organizations and families, involving them in library planning and events to ensure the space reflects the community's diversity and needs.

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1 UDL principles

UDL is a framework that seeks to make learning accessible and engaging for all learners, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or preferences. This same concept can be applied to library spaces, by providing multiple ways of representation, expression, and engagement for children. To create an inclusive library space, you can offer a variety of formats and media for books and materials such as print, digital, audio, visual, tactile, and multilingual. You can also provide flexible and adaptable furniture, equipment, and lighting that can accommodate different physical and sensory needs and preferences. Additionally, you can create zones and areas that cater to different levels of noise, activity, and interaction such as quiet corners, collaborative spaces, and sensory-friendly zones. To further encourage exploration and play in the library space you can incorporate elements such as puzzles, games art supplies, and maker kits.

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Heidi Colom

Librarian at Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System
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Having a makerspace, or at least coloring sheets and crayons, is a good idea. It is the first step to increase interaction and involvement. Puppets can provide a lot of fun and lead children to interact with each other and use their imagination. And building blocks are good for children who are more left-brained.

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Luisa Surma

Higher Ed @Wix | Ex-Amazon | I help you translate your skills into career currency.
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Provide a diverse collection of books that represent various cultures, abilities, and perspectives, ensuring every child sees themselves reflected in the stories. Additionally, designing the space with accessibility in mind, such as having wheelchair-accessible shelves and sensory-friendly reading areas, makes the library welcoming and usable for all children. Reading takes you places.

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2 Cultural competence

Cultural competence is the ability to understand, appreciate, and interact with people from different cultural backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. This can help librarians create an inclusive library space by developing a diverse and inclusive collection of books and materials that reflect the cultures, languages, histories, and identities of the children and their families. It is also important to display and promote books that challenge stereotypes and address social justice issues. Moreover, providing culturally relevant and responsive programs and services that meet the needs and interests of the children and their communities is essential. Finally, librarians should seek feedback and input from the children and their families on how to improve the library space and services.

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JoAnn Tebo

Genealogy / History Researcher and Substitute Teacher
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Realize that building a good reputation as an inclusive library space for children, takes time and consistency. Having an attitude that it must be set up overnight or building one that disappears quickly because, "We announced it and no one came!", is counter-productive. It takes outreach, and invitation to build the reputation of having a genuinely inclusive program.

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Alexandra Patterson

Library Director | English Educator | Johns Hopkins EdD Candidate
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In my library, we've worked to ensure that each of our displays represents a diverse range of perspectives. This means ensuring that even in a seemingly unrelated display - for example about fantasy novels - we have representation of different gender identities, racial backgrounds, religious backgrounds, as well as including books in translation. We do this not only for displays but also for our social media posts, book club selections, and any posters/marketing materials.

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Meredith Eliassen

Associate Librarian, Lecturer/Special Collections Librarian at San Francisco State University
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Cultural competency and community engagement go hand in hand in creating inclusive library spaces and collections for children. These spaces should not just be designed (in my opinion) for children but for inter-generational interaction with read-aloud events for families and access for the disabled and families with different structures. What children learn about information literacy and socialization in libraries they carry throughout life; it can make them able to enter any “place of learning” as authentic and at home to foster a love of life-long learning.

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Heidi Colom

Librarian at Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System
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If possible, have a librarian who specialized (or at least took classes) in youth services. A competent professional who knows the material well and how to find the right resource for the right child is always handy. Familiarity with other cultures is certainly an asset, especially when there are large groups represented in the clientele. Knowledge of not only another language's vocabulary and grammar will help with customer transactions, but familiarity with the cultural differences and similarities can help go the extra mile.

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3 Community engagement

Community engagement is the process of building relationships and partnerships with people and organizations that serve and support children and their families. This can help librarians create an inclusive library space by inviting and involving the children and their families in the planning, design, and evaluation of the library space and services. It is also beneficial to collaborate and network with other librarians, educators, and professionals who work with children from diverse backgrounds and abilities. Furthermore, it is important to reach out to local organizations and groups that represent and advocate for the children and their communities. Hosting and participating in community events and activities that showcase and celebrate the diversity of the children’s cultures is another way to create an inclusive library space. Creating a space that fosters a sense of belonging, curiosity, and joy for all children requires a commitment to learning, listening, and adapting.

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Stacey Roberts - SAG/AFTRA

“United We Read, Together We Grow”
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Engaging senior citizens in community activities involves a multifaceted approach, especially when it comes to literacy, building personal stories, and impacting their neighborhood library. Storytelling and Personal History Projects: Encouraging seniors to share their life stories can be deeply fulfilling. This not only preserves valuable personal and community history but also validates their experiences and contribution to society. The library community will thrive beyond their wildest dreams. A living library experience is a powerful tool for growth and enrichment. A sense of belonging is a key component towards a vibrant living library environment. Libraries can provide a true sense of belonging. Multi-generations will benefit.

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4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are some ways to create an inclusive library space for children?

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1 UDL principles

2 Cultural competence

3 Community engagement

4 Here’s what else to consider

Library Services

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What are some ways to create an inclusive library space for children?

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1 UDL principles

2 Cultural competence

3 Community engagement

4 Here’s what else to consider

Library Services

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